Exploring the Gems of Indian Drinks: Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic

India, a vast country with over a billion people, has a diverse range of drinks that cater to various preferences and occasions. From traditional teas to a variety of alcoholic beverages, Indian drinks offer a rich cultural tapestry for both locals and tourists to enjoy.

Alcoholic Beverages in India

India is known for its diverse range of alcoholic drinks, with whisky taking a prominent place. As someone with a palate that appreciates a good whisky, whether it's Indian, Irish, or Scotch, there's a fine selection available here. Some individuals prefer other spirits such as vodka, gin, or rum and coke. Let's take a closer look at the range of alcoholic beverages:

Whisky

India has a rich tradition of distilling whisky, with some brands gaining international acclaim. The quality of Indian whiskies continues to improve, with brands like Indian Glenfiddich and Royal Challenge winning recognition. Whether you're sipping an aged Indian spirit or a favorite from abroad, it's a versatile drink that pairs well with various flavor profiles.

Beers

The beer scene in India is vibrant, offering a wide range of local and international brands. Some popular beers in India include Heineken, Kingfisher, and Indian-made Budweiser. However, this market is diverse, with many microbreweries now offering unique craft beers that appeal to a discerning palette.

Local Spirits

India also has its own distinctive spirits. For instance, arrack, made from fermented coconut sap, is a popular choice, especially in the Southern states. Another unique local spirit is Bukhara, a wheat-based alcoholic beverage that has gained popularity among younger generations.

Non-Alcoholic Indian Drinks

While the world of Indian drinks isn't exclusively focused on alcohol, it's equally diverse when it comes to non-alcoholic beverages, with tea being the centerpiece.

Indian Tea (Chai)

Indian tea, particularly from the Assam gardens, is renowned for its hearty and robust flavor. It's a drink that finds a place in almost every household, enjoyed at any time of the day. The traditional preparation of chai involves simmering tea leaves, water, and milk, along with a blend of spices like cardamom, and sometimes sugar, to create a comforting and aromatic beverage.

Traditional Assam Chai

Ingredients:

1 and 1/2 cups water A pinch of cardamom powder 3 to 4 teaspoons tea leaves 1/2 cup full-fat milk Sweetener of choice

Instructions:

Heat water in a deep saucepan on medium to high flame until you start seeing bubbles (about 3 minutes). Maintain the same flame throughout the process. Add crushed cardamom or your chai spice (optional). Bring to a rolling boil (about 2 minutes), swirling the pan to mix the water and tea leaves thoroughly. Add the milk and bring back to a boil. This will stop the boiling but don't increase or reduce the flame. Cook for a minute or until it reaches your preferred strength, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom. Strain the hot chai into a mug with sugar or serve with sugar separately. Stir to dissolve the sugar. Pour the prepared chai from a height to create froth and serve with your favorite snacks.

This traditional recipe captures the essence of the Assam chai, a drink that rejuvenates the senses and brings people together in every household, especially during cold weather or when there's a need to brighten a day.

Conclusion

From the comforting embrace of a steaming cup of Assam chai to the robust flavors of Indian whiskies, the beverage culture in India is a delightful exploration of tradition and innovation. Whether you're sipping a local spirit or enjoying a traditional tea, India offers a rich and diverse range of drinks to suit every palate and occasion.